David Willetts

More about Havant

The Borough of Havant is an intriguing mix of small mainland market towns, an attractive coastline and an island community, with a fascinating history and an excellent range of leisure facilities.

Situated in the south east corner of Hampshire the Borough includes the resort of Hayling Island and the towns of Havant, Waterlooville, Cowplain and Emsworth.

Hayling Island retains much of its rural image which, combined with its beaches and location between the busy, picturesque Langstone and Chichester Harbours, gives it the feel of the "countryside by the sea". It is a resort with an unspoilt atmosphere where visitors can walk along narrow country lanes with thatched cottages and working farms, and enjoy European Blue Flag beaches with an interesting, environmentally important foreshore.

Emsworth, at the north end of Chichester Harbour, is a popular stopping off point for sailors, where visitors of all nationalities call in to sample the atmosphere of the old town, which is designated as an "outstanding" conservation area. The many restaurants and pubs in the town centre add a relaxed and vital ingredient to the Emsworth experience.

Havant is the heart of the Borough. Its small streets and historic frontages are a reminder of its ancient origins which include a network of ancient narrow town footpaths known as "twittens". A series of wells supplied water formerly used to make quality parchment, such that it was used for the Treaty of Versailles.

Waterlooville and Cowplain are substantial residential areas with much of the Borough's high-tech industry close by. Several superstores adjoin Waterlooville's lively shopping centre.

You can find out more information about me and my work for the people of Havant at my own website: www.davidwilletts.org.uk.